Sri Lanka Package Trip: Peaks and Paths 8-Day Epic Tour

 Highlights of the Trip

One for the trekking enthusiasts! Embark on an unforgettable 8-day Sri Lanka package trip through the stunning landscapes and spectacular cultural mosaic of Sri Lanka, tailored for trekking and wildlife enthusiasts.

Your journey begins in Negombo, where you’ll unwind and prepare for the adventure ahead. Then, experience the mystical allure of evening trekking in Udawattakelle, discovering hidden gems in Kandy’s historic cityscape, and conquering the Knuckles Mountain Range on a full-day trek. In Nuwara Eliya, a leisurely day awaits, perfect for sampling plenty of Ceylon tea, followed by a thrilling trek through Horton Plains, with an optional overnight ascent of Adam’s Peak for the daring. After a night’s rest in Nuwara Eliya, delve into Udawalawe’s wildlife wonders and trek through the breathtaking Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve. Finally, wrap up your expedition with a serene night in Bentota before bidding adieu to the island. Throughout your journey, relish local cuisine, adding a delicious dimension to your exploration.

This tour promises a satisfying mix of hiking, history, nature, and cultural experiences- the ultimate in Sri Lanka travel- leaving you with cherished memories of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural richness. It makes an ideal Sri Lanka family holiday, couples trip or solo trip alike.

Browse our website to discover more of our trip packages in Sri Lanka.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Negombo

If time allows visit:

• Negombo Beach: Enjoy the sun, sea, and sand at this popular stretch of golden coastline known for its vibrant atmosphere, water activities and scenic sunsets.
• St Mary’s Church: Visit the iconic St. Mary’s Church, a historic Catholic church with Dutch and Portuguese influences, featuring intricate architecture and religious significance.
• Dutch Fort: Explore the remnants of the Dutch Fort, reflecting the colonial history of the region. The fort area is characterised by old cannons, a clock tower, and colonial-style architecture.

Kandy

• Evening Trekking at Udawattakelle: Immerse yourself in nature during this evening trek exploring lush landscapes, ancient temples, and diverse flora and fauna.

If time allows visit:

• Dalada Maligawa (The Temple of the Tooth Relic): Witness the cultural richness at this iconic temple, a sacred Buddhist site with historical and spiritual significance.
• Kandy City: Discover the charm of Kandy city, blending cultural heritage with modern vibrancy, offering markets, colonial architecture, and a serene lakeside setting.

Knuckles

• Full Day Trekking Knuckles Mountain Range: Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Knuckles Mountain Range with a full-day trek, navigating through scenic trails and enjoying panoramic views.

Nuwara Eliya

• Trekking the Horton Plains: Explore the unique landscapes of Horton Plains during a trek, discovering World’s End, Baker’s Falls, and the rich biodiversity of this National Park.
• Optional Climb to Adam’s Peak: Embark on a spiritual and physical journey by climbing Adam’s Peak, a pilgrimage site with stunning sunrise views and a sacred footprint.

If time allows visit:

• Seetha Amman Temple: Dive into the Ramayana legend at Seetha Amman Temple, a serene Hindu temple surrounded by tea plantations, adding cultural depth to your Nuwara Eliya visit.
• Hakgala Botanical Gardens: Stroll through Hakgala Botanical Gardens, a haven of exotic flora, meticulously landscaped gardens, and the serene Hakgala Lake.
• Tea Factory Tour: Gain insights into Sri Lanka’s tea production with a tea factory tour, learning about the tea-making process and tasting freshly brewed varieties.

Udawalawe

If time allows visit:

• Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home: Witness the conservation efforts at Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, providing care for orphaned elephants before their release into the wild.
• Udawalawe National Park Safari: Experience wildlife wonders with a safari in this stunning National Park, home to diverse fauna, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species.
• Bogoda Wooden Bridge: Cross the historic Bogoda Wooden Bridge, the oldest surviving wooden bridge in Sri Lanka, offering a glimpse into the island’s architectural heritage.

Bentota

• Trekking the Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve: Immerse yourself in the biodiversity of the Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve through trekking, discovering unique flora, fauna, and cascading waterfalls.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Evening Trekking at Udawattakelle: Engage in a cultural immersion as you explore Udawattakelle, encountering ancient ruins and hidden temples, connecting with the spiritual and historical facets of Kandy.

Discover Local Life: Immerse yourself in local life by exploring vibrant markets, interacting with friendly locals, and learning more about their culture, handicrafts, and traditions.

Full-Day Trekking Knuckles Mountain Range: Connect with local communities during your trek, experiencing their customs and traditions while traversing the scenic trails of the Knuckles.

Trekking the Horton Plains: Appreciate the cultural significance of Horton Plains as you explore its landscapes, discovering the unique ecosystems and understanding the historical context of the area.

Climbing Adam’s Peak for Sunrise: Embrace the cultural pilgrimage of Adam’s Peak, where your ascent is not only a physical challenge but a spiritual journey, culminating in a breathtaking sunrise at the sacred summit.

Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari: Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s wildlife culture during a safari trip, witnessing elephants, leopards, and diverse birdlife in their natural habitat.

The Kandyan Cultural Show: If time permits, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy and experience the vibrant traditions of Kandy through its Cultural Show, a colourful spectacle of dance, music, and rituals that convey the rich cultural heritage of the Kandyan Kingdom, celebrating the island’s artistic diversity.

Guided Nuwara Eliya Tea Factory Tour: Uncover the cultural heritage of Ceylon tea through a guided tour of Nuwara Eliya Tea Factory. Gain insights into the art of tea productions, steeped in Sri Lanka’s colonial history, reflecting the cultural importance of this globally renowned beverage.

Trekking the Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve: Connect with the indigenous cultures near Sinharaja, learning about their sustainable practices and ancient wisdom as your trek through the rainforest.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Sri Lanka

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in rice & curry, a staple featuring aromatic rice served with an array of curries, including dhal, coconut, sambol, and various vegetable or meat curries; hoppers, thin bowl shaped pancakes made from fermented rice batter, often served for breakfast or dinner with different accompaniments; kottu roti, a popular street food made by chopping flatbread, vegetables, and meat (or eggs) mixed with a flavourful blend of spices and sauces; string hoppers, delicate steamed rice noodle nests served with curries, coconut sambol, and dhal; fish ambul thiyal, a sour fish curry made with goraka (a type of tamarind), black pepper, and other spices, creating a unique and tangy flavour; Sri Lankan devilled chicken, a spicy and flavourful chicken dish stir-fried with onions, peppers, and a blend of aromatic spices; pol sambol, a fiery coconut relish made with grated coconut, chilli, lime juice, and other spices, often enjoyed as a side dish; wambatu moju, a sweet and sour eggplant pickle; and kiribath, a ceremonial dish of milk rice, often enjoyed during special occasional and festivities, symbolising prosperity and good fortune.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Negombo Lagoon Boat Tour: Explore the scenic Negombo Lagoon by boat, discovering its mangroves, fishing villages, ad diverse birdlife.

Kandy Lake Boat Ride: Leisurely cruise on the scenic Kandy Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and overlooked by the Temple of the Tooth Relic, providing a serene escape in the heart of Kandy.

Knuckles Mountain Range River Trekking and Canyoning: Experience the adventurous river trekking and canyoning activities in the rivers flowing through the Knuckles Mountain Range.

Gregory Lake Boat Ride: Experience the charm of Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya with a boat ride, surrounded by misty hills and tea plantations.

Udawalawe Reservoir Boat Safari: Take a boat safari on Udawalawe Reservoir, offering opportunities to spot wildlife along the water’s edge.

Madu River Boat Safari, Bentota: Cruise along the scenic Madu River, exploring mangroves, small islands, and witnessing traditional village life.

Accommodation of this Tour

Negombo: Hotel in Negombo

Kandy: Hotel in Kandy

Nuwara Eliya: Resort in Nuwara Eliya

Udawalawe: Hotel in Udawalawe

Bentota: Hotel in Bentota

Itinerary

Day 1:

• Itinerary Details

Arrive airport. Meet guide in lobby (waiting with paging board). Transfer from airport to Negombo – approx. 20mins. Check in and overnight stay at hotel in Negombo.

• Transportation and Accommodation

Transfer from airport to hotel and accommodation included.

Day 2:

• Highlights and Activities

Today’s highlight is evening trekking at Udawattakelle. Located in Kandy, Udawattakelle boasts a rich history dating back to the reign of King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in the 19^th century. Today, it’s a crucial Bio reserve for Kandy City and a haven for trekkers, with dense forests and ancient ruins to explore.

• Itinerary Details

Have breakfast at hotel. Drive to Kandy – approx. 4hrs. Evening trekking at Udawattakelle. Check in and overnight stay at hotel in Kandy.

• Cultural Experiences

Evening trekking with an experienced guide in Udawattakelle offers a unique cultural experience. The serene forest comes alive with the sounds of traditional Kandyan drummers and temple chants, creating a mystical ambiance, while guides share insights into the region’s history, folklore, and rituals, offering a deeper connection to Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

• Local Cuisine

Tuck into delicious local dishes such as Kandyan chicken curry, milk rice, jackfruit curry, and the iconic Kandyan-style sweetmeats.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary. Nearby, you can also explore Dalada Maligawa (The Temple of the Tooth Relic) and Kandy City.

• Transportation and Accommodation

Transport and accommodation included.

Day 3:

• Highlights and Activities

Today enjoy a full day of trekking through Knuckles Mountain Range, named so due to its recumbent folds and peaks resembling the knuckles of a clenched fist from certain locations.

• Itinerary Details

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Knuckles – approx. 2hrs. Full day trekking at Knuckles Mountain Range. Return to hotel in Kandy for dinner and overnight stay.

• Cultural Experiences

During today’s trek, encounter rural villages, meet locals, and witness traditional farming practices, all amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

• Local Cuisine

Savour local Sri Lankan dishes such as lemongrass-infused rice and curry, coconut sambol, and hearty jungle rice.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

While trekking the Knuckles Mountain Range, explore the Corbett’s Gap viewpoint for panoramic views, visit remote villages like Meemure, and discover ancient caves like Aluvihara. At higher elevations, you’ll discover a series of isolated cloud forests. More than 34% of Sri Lanka’s endemic shrubs, trees, and herbs are found exclusively in this forest.

• Transportation and Accommodation

Transport and accommodation included.

Day 4:

• Highlights and Activities

Take today to really soak up the sights of Nuwara Eliya and enjoy an evening of leisure at your resort.

• Itinerary Details

Breakfast at hotel. Drive to Nuwara Eliya – approx. 2 hrs. Check into hotel in Nuwara Eliya and enjoy evening of leisure at the resort.

• Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Seetha Amman Temple, exploring the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, and experiencing a traditional tea plucking and processing session, offering authentic insights into the region’s heritage.

• Local Cuisine

Indulge in comforting dishes like creamy vegetable stew and aromatic mutton curry. Take the opportunity to taste the world-famous Ceylon tea, freshly brewed at local plantations.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England”, offers picturesque sights like Victoria Park, Lake Gregory, and the iconic Lover’s Leap waterfall. For a taste of colonial charm, visit the historic Nuwara Eliya Golf Club and tea plantations.

• Transportation and Accommodation

Transport and accommodation included.

Day 5:

• Highlights and Activities

Today’s highlight is trekking through the stunning Horton Plains, plus an optional climb to Adam’s Peak.

• Itinerary Details

Arrange a packet breakfast from your hotel. Drive to Horton Plains – approx. 45 mins. Trekking at Horton Plains. Return to hotel in Nuwara Eliya. Optional drive to climb Adam’s Peak – approx. 2 ½ hrs. Climb starts at 2am and takes approx. 6 hours. Return to hotel in Nuwara Eliya for overnight stay.

If climbing Adam’s Peak, you will need to bring:

• Warm layers of clothes and white cloth for your head.
• Light and comfortable shoes with a good grip.
• Water and some snacks if hiking out of season. (During high pilgrimage season there are lots of small shops on the way up).
• Torch, especially if hiking out of season.
• Cultural Experiences

Trekking through Horton plains offers an opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s unique biodiversity, including the iconic World’s End viewpoint. Climbing Adam’s Peak is a spiritual journey, culminating in a sunrise visit to the sacred footprint, celebrated by pilgrims of various faiths for centuries, including Alexander the Great, Marco Polo, and Ibn Battua.

• Local Cuisine

Savour spicy chicken curry, fragrant vegetable kottu, and traditional milk rice with sweet treacle.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

While trekking through Horton Plains, discover World’s End and Baker’s Falls. Places to visit in Nuwara Eliya include historic Hill Club, St. Xavier’s Church, Nanu Oya Railway Station, Galway’s Land National Park, and Pedro Tea Estate.

• Transportation and Accommodation

Transport and accommodation included.

Day 6:

• Highlights and Activities

Today you will likely be resting from yesterday’s hikes, as you journey to Udawalawe, a place renowned for its natural beauty. If you do have the energy, there will be time to explore Udawalwe or enjoy some time at your hotel.

• Itinerary Details

Breakfast at your hotel. Drive to Udawalawe – approx. 4hrs. Check in and overnight stay at hotel in Udalawawe.

• Cultural Experiences

Why not visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home to learn about elephant conservation efforts? You can also explore nearby rural villages to interact with locals and gain insights into their way of life. Depending on the time of year, you might be able to attend some traditional cultural performances or festivals.

• Local Cuisine

Enjoy delicious Sri Lankan staples like rice and curry with locally sourced ingredients.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

You could embark on a thrilling safari in Udawalawe National Park to witness herds of elephants and diverse wildlife. Visit the Elephant Transit Home, the Udawalawe Reservoir, and the nearby Bogoda Wooden Bridge.

• Transportation and Accommodation

Transport and accommodation included.

Day 7:

• Highlights and Activities

Put on those hiking boots for another day of trekking. Today, you’ll be venturing through the Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve, a breathtaking national park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site.

• Itinerary Details

Have breakfast at your hotel. Drive to Sinharaja – approx. 3hrs. Trekking at Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve. Drive to Bentota – approx. 3.5hrs. Check in and overnight stay at hotel in Bentota.

• Cultural Experiences

Interact with local guides and forest officers who can share their knowledge about the rainforest’s significance in Sri Lankan culture and conservation efforts. You might also encounter indigenous communities living around the forest and have opportunities to learn about their traditional practices and beliefs.

• Local Cuisine

Try rice and curry and fresh tropical fruits. Carry some energy-boosting items like dried fruits, nuts, and local sweets for sustenance during your rainforest adventure.

• Sightseeing and Landmarks

While trekking through Sinharaja Forest Reserve, keep your eyes peeled for captivating waterfalls like Martin’s Falls and the mesmerising biodiversity, with endemic species, including amphibians, birds, insects, mammals, reptiles, and trees. Also look out for the Sinharaja Forest Reserve sign, Moulawella Trail, and the iconic Sinsapa Nature Education Centre for informative experiences.

• Transportation and Accommodation

Transport and accommodation included.

Day 8:

• Itinerary Details

Enjoy breakfast. Transfer to airport for your departure home – approx. 2 ½ hrs.

Price

Price per person based on two-people group size: £757
– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing
– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive at the airport and transfer to hotel in Negombo.

Day 2: Travel to Kandy and enjoy evening trekking at Udawattakelle.

Day 3: Full-day trekking at Knuckles Mountain Range, known for its stunning landscapes.

Day 4: Explore Nuwara Eliya’s sights or relax at the resort.

Day 5: Trek at Horton Plains and optional climb of Adam’s Peak for sunrise.

Day 6: Travel to Udawalawe for wildlife exploration or relaxation.

Day 7: Trek through Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 8: Transfer to airport for departure home.

FAQs

1. 1. What are the main highlights of this tour?
   • This tour highlights include trekking through picturesque landscapes such as Udawattakelle, Knuckles Mountain Range, Horton Plains, and Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve. Additionally, optional activities like climbing Adam’s Peak and exploring local temples enrich the experience.
   2. What cultural experiences can I expect on this tour?
   • You’ll have opportunities to interact with locals, learn about traditional farming practices, and explore historical sites like the Seetha Amman Temple and Sri Muthumariamman Temple. Evening treks offer insights into Kandyan culture, with drummers and temple chants in Udawattakelle.
   3. What types of cuisine will I encounter during the tour?
   • You can enjoy a variety of local Sri Lankan dishes, including Kandyan chicken curry, rice and curry, milk rice, and jackfruit curry. There will also be opportunities to taste Ceylon tea, freshly brewed at local plantations.
   4. Are there any optional activities available?
   • Yes, there are optional activities such as climbing Adam’s Peak for sunrise, visiting the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, and attending traditional cultural performances or festivals depending on the season.
   5. What landmarks will we visit during the tour?
   • Landmarks include historical temples like the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Seetha Amman Temple, and Sri Muthumariamman Temple. Natural landmarks include World’s End viewpoint at Horton Plains, Baker’s Falls, and waterfalls in Sinharaja Rain Forest Reserve.
   6. What level of physical fitness is required for this tour?
   • This tour involves trekking through varying terrains, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. However, optional activities like climbing Adam’s Peak require a higher level of fitness.
   7. What is included in the transportation and accommodation package?
   • Transportation includes transfers between locations and accommodation is provided at each destination. Additionally, breakfast is included daily, and some optional activities may be included depending on the itinerary.